Seattle is one of the most vibrant and exciting cities in the United States, and it makes for an amazing destination for travelers. With its eclectic mix of culture, history, art, and natural beauty, there’s something for everyone here! Whether you’re visiting for a weekend getaway or planning a longer trip, we’ve put together the ultimate itinerary to help you make the most of your time in Seattle.
Day 1:
Start your day off by heading to Pike Place Market, one of Seattle’s most famous attractions. This bustling market has been around since 1907 and is home to more than 200 vendors selling everything from fresh seafood to handcrafted chocolates. Be sure to catch the daily fish toss, where the vendors throw whole fish to one another across the market!
Head over to the nearby Seattle Art Museum (SAM) to explore some of the city’s best art collections. The museum features exhibits from all around the world, including contemporary art, Native American art, and more.
Next, make your way over to the Space Needle, one of Seattle’s most iconic landmarks. The 605-foot tower was built for the 1962 World’s Fair and has since become a symbol of the city. Take the elevator to the top for stunning panoramic views of the city and the surrounding mountains.
In the evening, take a stroll through the beautiful Olympic Sculpture Park, located on the waterfront just north of downtown Seattle. This public park features stunning views of Elliott Bay and the Olympic Mountains, as well as an impressive collection of outdoor art installations.
Day 2:
Begin your day by traveling to the Ballard neighborhood, located just northwest of downtown Seattle. Explore the historic Ballard Locks, which were built in 1911 to link Lake Union and Lake Washington to the Puget Sound. It’s a fascinating experience to see the water level adjusting and boats passing through!
Walk around the Ballard neighborhood, which has a cool vibe and is known for its craft beer scene. Check out the local breweries and bars in the area, such as Stoup Brewing and Reuben’s Brews.
Next, head over to the Museum of Pop Culture (MoPOP), which celebrates popular music, science fiction, and pop culture. The museum’s exhibits range from Jimi Hendrix to Star Trek, and there are always new and exciting exhibitions to check out.
In the evening, head to Capitol Hill, one of Seattle’s most vibrant neighborhoods. This trendy area is known for its nightlife and has plenty of bars, clubs, and restaurants to explore. Don’t forget to check out the famous rainbow crosswalks at the intersection of 11th Avenue and Pike Street.
Day 3:
On your third day in Seattle, take a trip out of the city to Mount Rainier National Park, located about two hours south of Seattle. This stunning national park is home to Mount Rainier, which stands at 14,410 feet and is one of the most prominent peaks in the United States. The park has plenty of hiking trails, waterfalls, and stunning views of wildflowers, wildlife, and glaciers.
Alternatively, explore the nearby San Juan Islands, a group of islands located between Seattle and Vancouver Island, Canada. Take a ferry from Seattle to Friday Harbor, the main town on San Juan Island, and explore the quaint shops, restaurants, and galleries. You can also go whale watching, kayaking, hiking or just relaxing.
Day 4:
Wrap up your Seattle itinerary with a trip to the Museum of Flight, the largest independent air and space museum in the world. This incredible museum has over 160 aircraft and spacecraft on display, including the first Boeing 747 and the original Air Force One.
Next, take a trip to Fremont, a quirky and eclectic neighborhood known for its public art, street performers, and vintage shops. Make sure to check out the famous Fremont Troll, a giant sculpture of a troll located beneath the Aurora Bridge.
End your trip on a high note by visiting the Chihuly Garden and Glass museum, which features stunning glass artworks by renowned artist Dale Chihuly. The museum’s garden is a work of art in itself, with beautifully designed sculptures and glass installations.
Overall, Seattle is a city that must be experienced in order to truly appreciate everything it has to offer. Whether you’re a history buff, art lover, foodie or adventurer, there’s something in Seattle for you. Follow this itinerary to make the most of your 2, 3 or 4-day trip to this amazing city!
